Air Rights Deal to Renovate Boston's Back Bay Station Includes Skyscraper

Boston is in the process of effectively privatizing the management of its largest transit hubs. The latest example: a deal that would renovate MBTA’s Back Bay Station in exchange for air rights for a skyscraper above the station.

1 minute read

June 19, 2014, 12:00 PM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


"The owner of the John Hancock Tower in Boston is negotiating with Governor Deval Patrick’s administration to renovate and manage the MBTA’s Back Bay Station in exchange for the right to build a towering complex of residences, stores, and offices," reports Casey Ross.

"A deal could eventually allow developer Boston Properties Inc. to construct a skyscraper and at least one other building above the rehabilitated station, which would get a new retail arcade, ventilation upgrades, and a glass facade along Dartmouth Street. City officials would also have to approve the new buildings."

Wednesday, June 18, 2014 in The Boston Globe

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